College Corner: How to Prepare for Your First Big Interview

It was the night before a big interview and I swear I had steam coming from my ears. I had no idea what to wear, no idea what to bring, I was lost.

My room was covered in clothes that I had eliminated as interview outfits, so naturally there was nothing left in my closet for me to wear. I had printed out my resume, but of course I couldn’t find where I put it and my printer broke so I couldn’t print another. It was all a complete disaster.

Interviews are mighty important and I wasn’t about to screw this one up. Big interviews are hard to come by and as a poor college student I needed all of the jobs I could get; and of course the experience is necessary for my future, as well. I had to do my fair share of research as to what to expect from a real interview in order to not completely screw it up. Based upon my experience with Google and my frustrations with my printer and closet, here are five tips from a college girl’s perspective as to how to knock your first big interview out of the water:

1. Dress Professionally. It does not impress a possible boss to walk into an interview wearing jeans of any kind. Ladies, a nice dress or dress pants and a blouse are acceptable. Guys, dress pants and a button up should do. Dress for the job you want, not the one you have.

2. Flesh out your resume. It should be easy to read and have a clear demonstration of your goals and previous accomplishments. Have an extra copy, just in case you are asked for one at the interview.

3. Be Early. If you are asked to show up for an interview at 4 that does not mean you should walk into the office at 4, but at 3:55. Punctuality is key, it proves you are dedicated and prepared.

4. Brush Your Teeth. If you brushed them, do it again. And maybe once more after that just for safety. Having clean teeth and fresh breath is extremely important. As you should be smiling during your interview, you won’t impress your potential boss with gunky teeth or nasty breath.

5. Breathe. Interviews are nerve racking as it is, but it is important to maintain your composure. Answer the questions posed at you honestly and fully, but have a good time while doing so. Take a breath, calm down, have a nice chat. If it’s meant to be, it will be.

I kept all of these in mind while going into my interview and it went splendidly. And guess what? I got the job! Follow these basic steps and you are on your way to a bright future.

If you have any other tips for interviews or stories about interviews, please post below in the comments section!